Lack
of Water Pressure Could Leave High-Rises Dry and Hinder Firefighting

Hydrants
Can Be Opened With Spray Caps in Places With No Water Service

Commissioner Christopher O. Ward of the New York City Department of Environmental
Protection urged New York City residents today to not open fire hydrants
in the aftermath of the blackout. Where water service has been interrupted,
residents should request that the local fire house install a spray cap
and open a nearby fire hydrant.

“Hydrants are for fighting fires, and should be used responsibly,”
said Commissioner Ward. “Illegally opened hydrants can lower water
pressure, causing problems at hospitals and other medical care facilities,
and hindering fire-fighting by reducing the flow of water to hoses and
pumps.

“Also,” Commissioner Ward continued, “during the blackout
many people who live in high-rise buildings lost water service because
the electric pumps that fill the roof tanks for those buildings stopped
working. As the electricity is restored, the pumps will need sufficient
water pressure to refill the roof tanks. Without that water pressure,
people in buildings over five stories tall will not be able to regain
their water service.”

Hydrants can be opened legally if equipped with a City-approved spray
cap. Spray caps can be obtained by an adult 18 or over, free of charge,
at local firehouses. In places where buildings have lost water service
the FDNY will provide spray caps and use special wrenches to open hydrants
that may be locked.

“The key is to use water responsibly during this crisis,”
said Commissioner Ward.